The Subtle Warning Signs of COPD...The warning signs are so subtle, it's ridiculous. Taking a look back, I can remember each and every warning sign. Collectively together, and many years later, it all makes sense...Reactions0reactionsComments6 comments
Confused about doctor's order regarding 02 saturation...I use an oximeter frequently, but have very cold hands, and often don't get a correct reading. I recently had a PFT test, and walk test. My levels drop down...Reactions0reactionsComments6 replies
How to Build More Sympathy for COPD...Sometimes when a person is sick, we find it easy to show love and compassion. Other times, trying to understand what a person is going through with their health issues...Reactions0reactionsComments16 comments
I’m very confused about COPD - it’s an umbrella term?...I am a 53-yo female. I was diagnosed with moderate COPD and asthma last week. I have an inhaler for the asthma, and will be starting Advair 100/50 on Friday...Reactions0reactionsComments5 replies
The Employer/COPD Connection...How can employers better work with COPD patients? In addition to having lung issues myself, I am a respiratory therapist by trade. I work in a hospital setting as well...Reactions0reactionsComments0 comments
What Is Bronchiectasis?...Bronchiectasis is another chronic lung disease. It may present similar to COPD. Some people with COPD may also have bronchiectasis. So, here’s all you need to know about bronchiectasis. It...Reactions0reactionsComments5 comments
One year diagnosed with emphysema and pulmonary fibrosis...My GP sent me to the hospital for a spirometry test. My result was no change when I used a puffer so I was given a prescription for Advair. Was...Reactions0reactionsComments12 replies
COPD and Indoor Air...It’s summer. Our focus has been on the outdoors. The big topic of conversation is usually the weather. Spring brought snow and blizzards in May to some of the USA...Reactions0reactionsComments0 comments
Oxygen and me!...Once in a while, I find myself acting as if I was still living in my pre-COPD days. That’s a bit difficult to explain but let me try... When the...Reactions0reactionsComments34 comments
Better Breathing Exercises for COPD...The main effect of having COPD is how it affects your ability to breathe easily. The four main symptoms of COPD include: All of those symptoms have to do with...Reactions0reactionsComments1 comments
Diagnosed and Happy(!)...I'm 64, started smoking at 6.....so am l surprised or dismayed at the news? Obviously not. It's not Cancer......it's not Dementia either and those are the scary ones for me....body...Reactions0reactionsComments5 replies
How Long Can Your Oxygen Tubing Be? ...Many people with COPD require supplemental oxygen. This requires the use of a nasal cannula and tubing. A standard recommendation is to never exceed 50 feet of tubing. So what’s...Reactions0reactionsComments24 comments
Moving Through the Stages of Grief as a COPD Caregiver...I was my mom's primary caregiver during the last four years of her life and I know how hard it can be to watch and cope with the many changes...Reactions0reactionsComments0 comments
Are You A Compliant Patient?...Today I want to talk about compliance. So, what is compliance? How can it benefit you? By definition, it’s when you comply with an order. In our case, it’s complying...Reactions0reactionsComments12 comments
Understanding Barrel Chest With COPD...If you have COPD or care for someone who does, you probably are aware of the four most common symptoms of this condition: There are other symptoms, such as fatigue...Reactions0reactionsComments7 comments
10 Tips For Using Home Oxygen...All people need oxygen to survive. Most people get plenty of oxygen from the air around us. But some people need more oxygen than what’s in room air. This causes...Reactions0reactionsComments21 comments
Becoming Housebound...Progression of COPD now has me 95% housebound in spite of max medications and consistent exercise. Weight loss from breathing exertion and decreasing diet, although can do a flight of...Reactions0reactionsComments7 comments
When You Can’t Afford COPD Medication...The cost of medications and inhalers for COPD can be steep if you are on a limited income. I was Mom’s caregiver before Medicare kicked in to help pay for...Reactions0reactionsComments11 comments
I was surprised at my new diagnosis. What are your thoughts?...A month ago I started a lung infection with light pains around chest and back, on and off. Had some light intermittent labored breathing that could last a few hours...Reactions0reactionsComments5 replies
Time Flies...It seems that we were just preparing for summer, now kids and their parents are getting ready for school. Fall is right around the corner and the Hallmark channel has...Reactions0reactionsComments1 comments
